Guided Hike to the Dwarf Pines

Saturday, August 1st, 9:30 AM — 11:30AM

Join a QWR Educator for a guided hike to the ecologically rare dwarf pines ecosystem and beat the summer heat! Due to a weather phenomenon called “radiational cooling,” the Pine Barrens are cooler than other locations on LI. Learn about this, native flora and fauna, and more on this 3-mile hike is on relatively flat terrain. Please apply any insect repellent and sunscreen prior to arrival, and wear sun protective clothing. Space limited. $10 per person, $5 for QWR 2026 members.

Natural Tie-Dye Trail Map Bandanas

Thursday, August 6th, 2:00 PM —3:30 PM

Get creative with nature in this hands-on workshop. Learn how to use natural dyes to create your own one-of-a-kind tie-dye bandana featuring QWR’s trail map design. Experiment with colors and patterns, then take home your unique, wearable keepsake. All materials provided. This program will take place outdoors, consider wearing sun protection. This is a program for adults and teenagers. $20 per person. Reservations and pre-payment are necessary as supplies are limited.

Paddle on Old Ice Pond

Monday, August 10th, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM or 2:45 PM – 3:45 PM

Explore Old Ice Pond via kayak or canoe during a self-guided paddle, or join up with a QWR Educator to learn about the history of the Refuge, and the flora and fauna of this freshwater ecosystem. A program for adults and families with children over 5 years old (children between 5 to 10 years old must be in the same boat with an adult). Reservations and pre-payment required, as space is limited, so please reserve early. Single kayaks, double kayaks, and canoes can be reserved by calling (631) 653-4771. $30 per person, $15 for kids 10 and under.

Nature Writing Workshop – “Stories Rooted in Place”

Friday, August 14th 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM

What stories do the trees and trails of Quogue Wildlife Refuge have to tell us?  As summer flourishes around us, bring your pad and pen outdoors to write the natural world into a poem, short story, or mini-essay. Whether the natural world shapes the setting, or becomes the main character of our work, we’ll let our imagination run wild over these 305 acres of stories. Maryann Calendrille is an educator, writer, and editor of over 35 years, has taught at local libraries, Southampton College, and through Canio’s Books. Maryann will share elements of the writer’s craft and lead guided exercises.Writers of all levels are welcome. $30 per person. Reservations and pre-payment necessary. This program will take place outdoors, consider wearing sun protection.

Lizard Animal Ambassador Story Time

Saturday, August 15th at 10:00 AM

Join a Quogue Library storyteller for a special story hour outdoors at the Refuge, including a simple craft and a special visit from one of our ambassador bearded dragons. Children must be accompanied by an adult. This program is offered in collaboration with the Quogue Library. This program will take place outdoors, consider wearing sun protection. Reservations required, $5 per child, free for QWR 2026 Members

Ssssensational Snakes!

Wednesday, August 19th 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM

Join us outdoors at the Refuge to meet some scaly animal ambassadors. After learning about each animal, children will have time to decorate their own slithering wooden snake to take home. This is a program for children ages 4 years old to 9 years old. This program will take place outdoors, consider wearing sun protection. Reservations and pre-payment necessary as supplies are limited.  $12 per child, must be accompanied by an adult.

Live Birds of Prey

Tuesday, August 25th, 2:00 PM — 2:45 PM

During this 45-minute presentation, you will learn about native Long Island raptor species, as well as how you can help protect them. Learn about their diets, habitats, and physical adaptations that make them excellent hunters. For adults and families with children age 6 and older. Reservations and pre-payment necessary. This program will take place outdoors, consider wearing sun protection. $10 per person, $5 per child (under 10 years old).